TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto stressed that Papua New Guinea highly respects the sovereignty of Indonesia. He made this statement in response to media inquiries about the border between the two countries, which is prone to crossing by the separatist group, OPM (the Free Papua Movement).

This statement was made after his meeting with PNG Prime Minister James Marape at the Defense Ministry Office in Jakarta on Monday, July 15.

He affirmed that the bilateral cooperation, including in guarding the border, is well established. He also acknowledged historical cross-border movements by local communities.

Indonesia and PNG, he added, are committed to maintaining good relations. Regarding the borders, which are vulnerable to OPM crossing, he emphasized that Papua New Guinea respects Indonesia's territorial sovereignty. “They (PNG) really respect our sovereignty.”

Indonesia and PNG share a land border area of approximately 770 kilometers. This long stretch includes numerous ‘rat routes’ or unofficial crossing points, which are often exploited for illegal activities like smuggling.

To address these vulnerabilities, Indonesia has established National Border Posts (PLBNs) at strategic locations, including PLBN Skouw in Jayapura, Papua; PLBN Sota in Merauke, South Papua; and PLBN Yetetkun in Boven Digoel, South Papua. Additionally, the Indonesian military maintains a permanent border security task force along the most critical sections.

Furthermore, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea hold regular meetings through various forums like the Border Liaison Officer Meeting (BLOM) and the Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC), which facilitate discussions on joint border management and cooperation.

During a separate meeting on the same day, Indonesian President Jokowi and James Marape agreed to expand cross-border cooperation for commercial purposes, including initiatives in transportation.

Defense Minister Prabowo, who is also Indonesia's President-elect, reiterated his commitment to continuing the strong partnership established by Jokowi. He highlighted the importance of maintaining positive relations with neighboring countries. “I’d like to continue President Joko Widodo's policies, and they (PNG) are very happy. The relationship between Pak Joko Widodo and our neighbors is very good,” Prabowo said.

ANTARA

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